Depression is a serious mental health disorder that can cause extreme sadness, hopelessness, behavioral changes, apathy, and significantly impact quality of life. Recent studies show that dietary and lifestyle changes in conjunction with counseling, doctor-prescribed depression medications, and support groups can greatly help in managing depression symptoms. In extreme cases, patients may require in-patient care via a depression treatment facility, the use of ongoing therapist counseling apps, and prescription anti depressant drugs like TRINTELLIX (vortioxetine), VRAYLAR (cariprazine), FETZIMA (levomilnacipran), Wellbutrin (Bupropion), AUVELITY, VIIBRYD (vilazodone HCI), and REXULTI (brexpiprazole). This article will discuss six foods that can help improve symptoms of depression:

1. Spinach and Swiss chard
If you’re not a fan of leafy greens, try adding them to your diet. These vegetables are packed with nutrients readily available for your body to use. They contain plenty of vitamins and minerals like manganese, potassium, and niacin, which can help your body and mind function at its best. Leafy greens also contain enzymes that help break down the food we eat into more digestible pieces for our bodies. Even though these foods may be high in calories, consuming them regularly can help you boost energy levels and improve your mood by giving you a sense of mental clarity and focus.

2. Oysters
Oysters are one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. They have been shown to help alleviate anxiety and depression by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels in the body.People who suffer from depression may have low levels of these neurotransmitters, leading to feelings of unhappiness, irritability, and lack of focus. They are also a good source of lean protein, which is essential for people who want to get rid of excess fat.

3. Cruciferous vegetables
If you’re suffering from depression, you must get enough folic acid into your diet. This vitamin is vital for several reasons. It promotes the growth of healthy cells, and it helps increase levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussel sprouts, kale, and cabbage are packed with folic acid, which can help boost mood and mental performance after even one serving. These vegetables also go along with depression prescriptions for excellent results in fighting depression.

4. Fermented foods
One of the best ways to boost both the body and mind is by consuming foods containing healthy bacteria. These probiotic foods are crucial for several reasons. They help improve the overall health of your cells and adapt to your digestive system by creating a healthy flora. Certain fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and tempeh are packed with these beneficial bacteria, known for their ability to help fight off depression. The fermentation process helps break down the food into smaller pieces, making enzymes and microbes easier to process. This helps to boost their nutritional content and allows them to get absorbed by your body much more easily. Eating these foods regularly can positively affect your mood and allow you to enjoy the things that you usually enjoy.

5. Brazil nuts
Brazil nuts are a good source of the mineral selenium, which has been shown to help reduce the symptoms of depression. These nuts are also abundant in many other healthful nutrients such as fiber, vitamin K, protein, and antioxidants. Most people don’t eat enough nuts regularly, which can have serious effects on their mental health. Many researchers and doctors have suggested that it’s vital for people who suffer from depression to get their daily quota of nutrients and minerals. Some studies have shown that eating these nuts can improve mood by increasing serotonin levels and enhancing the ability to memorize things in the long term.

6. Dark chocolate
There are several nutrients in dark chocolate that can help to reduce the symptoms of depression. It is abundant in flavanols, which has been shown to improve blood flow to certain areas in the brain. It also contains many other antioxidants and minerals that can help boost your mood by improving neurotransmitter levels and raising endorphin levels—two things that are closely associated with a good mood. These compounds in dark chocolate also contain anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful for people who suffer from chronic inflammation due to stress. But do keep in mind that consuming too much sugar or too much fat can make you feel more depressed over time.

A great way to combat depression is finding out what foods can help you feel better daily. Try eating a wide range of healthy foods, getting plenty of exercise each day, and having positive interactions with friends and family. Remember, you must keep your body healthy for your overall well-being and your mental health.